1 September 2009

100W or above incandescent light bulbs

Non-clear(frosted / pearl) lamps must be minimum A-class

1 September 2010

75W clear incandescent lamps

1 September 2011

60W clear incandescent lamps

1 September 2012

All remaining clear incandescent lamps (40W and 25W)

1 September 2016

Phase out of C-class retrofit halogen lamps

1st of September 2010 marked the last day of 75W incandescent light bulbs within the European Union.This is the second phase-out rule in a series of energy saving regulations made by the EU in 2008, within which they intend to get rid of all conventional incandescent light bulbs (invented by Edison)and inefficient halogen lights until 2016. This series of phase-outs, praised and criticised at the same time by many, eventually open a market to a widening range of energy saving lights. Since the ruling basically sets a minimum standard for energy efficiency and functionality, there will be plenty of halogens remaining on the market – class A and B are not planned to be banned within this regulation.

The entire range of regulations is under the heading of Eco-Design Directive, aiming to save at least 10-15% of household electricity accumulating on a national level, as well as reducing carbon-dioxide emission.